Help Mitchell raise money

This May, I’m running a 5K in Pittsburgh to support autism research — and to support a future where everyone on the spectrum is treated with understanding and respect.

When I was younger, I was diagnosed on the spectrum. I had a tough time with sensory things — clothes that felt painful, lights and sounds that were too loud and bright, foods I couldn’t eat because of the texture. I had big emotional reactions and often felt overwhelmed in ways I couldn’t explain. Some of those things might not seem like a big deal from the outside, but when you're in it, they can take over your world.

I’m not saying my experience was the most extreme, and I know others have been through more. But I also know what it feels like to be misunderstood — and how hard it can be just to function when the world doesn’t feel built for your brain. Over time, I’ve learned to adapt and grow, but a part of me will always relate to that feeling.

I'm running for the kids and adults who still feel that way every day. For those whose experiences are often overlooked or minimized because they don't “look” autistic. For the ones who deserve to be treated like humans — no matter what their diagnosis looks like on paper.

This is for awareness. This is for acceptance. This is for all of us.

Thank you for supporting the cause.